scatter — to throw or drop things in different directions so that they cover an area of ground
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to throw or drop things in different directions so that they cover an area of ground
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈskætər/
Example Sentences
- My cat scattered my puzzle pieces like a furry tornado.
- The students scattered faster than cookies at a diet meeting.
- Scientists scattered sensors across the forest to monitor wildlife.
scatter
VERB[/ˈskætər/]
to throw or drop things in different directions so that they cover an area of ground
Scattering leaves in all directions
The fireworks scattered sparks across the night sky like glowing stars. (scatter = SKY + throw → to scatter is to throw things outward across space like pieces spreading through the SKY)
The impact caused the glass to scatter and shatter — proving how fragile the smallest details can matter.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Middle English 'scateren', likely of Scandinavian origin, possibly related to Old Norse 'skattr' meaning 'tax' or 'tribute', but the exact etymology is uncertain. The word entered English around the 14th century.
Breakdown
scat- (root, of uncertain origin) + -er (verb suffix forming agent noun) = scatter (one who scatters, or the action of scattering)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My cat scattered my puzzle pieces like a furry tornado.”
“The students scattered faster than cookies at a diet meeting.”
“Scientists scattered sensors across the forest to monitor wildlife.”
“The explosion scattered debris over a wide area.”
📚Related Words
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